German
Shepherd Agility Training
German Shepherds are
intelligent dogs that enjoy training and enjoy playing. One way to
combine thought-provoking training with play is to combine training with
agility exercises. Agility
training lets German Shepherds release their pent-up energy
constructively, and learn how to be in happy, high spirits
while still being under control.
Agility training
involves the German Shepherd taking cues from his trainer, owner, or
handler as he makes his way through an obstacle course. The dog
completes the challenges in the obstacle course while being timed. The
goal is to do the obstacle faster each time. Once the dog is good enough
at maneuvering obstacles, he can compete professionally in this skill
area.
When competing
professionally in agility competitions, judges give points on the
basis of the German Shepherd’s speed and accuracy. Each obstacle
that the dog fails to cleanly complete will result in docked points.
Obstacles can include
items like ramps, tunnels, poles, and jumps. Since German
Shepherds are large dogs, the obstacle will need to be large enough so
that he can easily move through it without becoming stuck or bored.
All obstacle
equipment used in German Shepherd agility training needs to be sturdy
and designed with safety in mind. Non-toxic paints and varnishes should
be used. Jumping bars must be easily displaceable so that the German
Shepherd won’t injure himself if he doesn’t make the jump.
Agility training
can start anytime after your German Shepherd has mastered basic commands.
He must be able to sit, lie down, come promptly when called, stay in one
place when told to, be okay around other dogs, and not mind being
handled by strangers.
Before beginning any
type of German Shepherd agility training, it’s a good idea to have your
dog examined by a vet. The vet will check to make sure your dog’s hips
and elbow bones are okay through touch and x-rays. Your dog’s eyes will
also be examined.
German Shepherds
should not begin agility training until they’ve reached young adulthood.
Jumping can negatively impact
growing bones, so it’s advised that dogs don’t do any type of agility
training until they’ve passed the puppy stage and their bones
are fully developed. If your German Shepherd’s health holds out, he can
continue with agility training until he is eight to ten years old.
It’s a good idea to
use a professional trainer to teach your German Shepherd in agility
training. When selecting an instructor, be careful to pick one who isn’t
too pushy, critical, or competitive. Agility training is training, but
it should also a positive and fun experience.
Copyright © 2006 Womach Brother Productions
- German Shepherd Agility Training
|
